How to print with Ultimaker CPE+

Ultimaker CPE+ (co-polyester) is similar to Ultimaker CPE, but tougher and with higher temperature resistance. While Ultimaker CPE can withstand temperatures of up to 70 °C, Ultimaker CPE+ can withstand temperatures of up to 100 °C. These tips will help you get started and achieve good results with Ultimaker CPE+.

Compatibility

Ultimaker CPE+ can be used on the Ultimaker 2+, Ultimaker 3, and Ultimaker S5, but is not compatible with all nozzle sizes. Look at the table for a detailed overview. When printing CPE+ on the Ultimaker S5 or Ultimaker 3, you should use the AA print cores.

Note: Ultimaker CPE+ is not supported on the Ultimaker 2 Go, Ultimaker 2 (Extended), Ultimaker Original+, and Ultimaker Original

If you use CPE+ on the Ultimaker S5 or Ultimaker 3, you can use Breakaway as support material. Experimental use of CPE+ in combination with PVA or another color of CPE+ is also possible.

*Only possible for small prints. Larger prints may show warping of the build material

Recommended settings and configuration

Note: Always use the latest version of Ultimaker Cura and make sure that your 3D printer is updated with the latest firmware version to include the correct material profile for Ultimaker CPE+.

Temperatures

The recommended nozzle temperature for Ultimaker CPE+ is 250-275 °C, depending on the printer and nozzle size, and the material requires a build plate temperature of around 110 °C.

Note: The correct temperatures are automatically used based on the printer, nozzle size, and profile you select in Ultimaker Cura.

Adhesion

Ultimaker CPE+ is prone to warp and delaminate. The use of good adhesion is essential for the best print quality and glass plate protection.

We recommend using glue on the Ultimaker S5 and Ultimaker 3, and adhesion sheets on the Ultimaker 2+ to achieve reliable adhesion to the build plate. In addition to their adhesive properties, glue or adhesion sheets serve as a protective layer for the glass plate. Not using glue or adhesion sheets results in a high risk of chipping the glass plate when removing the print.

In Ultimaker Cura profiles for CPE+, the build plate adhesion type is set to a brim for the Ultimaker S5 and Ultimaker 3 and raft for the Ultimaker 2+. A brim is made of a few extra printed lines around the 3D print on the initial layer to ensure better adhesion and avoid warping. A raft puts a grid structure between the 3D print and build plate that allows for better adhesion. The raft will also allow even distribution of temperature through the initial layers of the 3D print.

After the 3D print is finished, it can be removed from the build plate. If you printed your model with a raft, it is easier to remove the raft while the build plate is still warm.

Print environment

Printing in a stable environment is important when using CPE+. It works well on the Ultimaker S5 because of the glass doors, and on the Ultimaker 3 and Ultimaker 2+ it is highly recommended to use the front enclosure of the Advanced 3D Printing Kit. Both the glass doors and front enclosure ensure a controlled environment inside the 3D printer, with a stable temperature of about 45 ºC. This provides a higher print success rate, and better quality and performance of the printed parts.

Health and safety

The Ultimaker CPE+ emits a low level of gases and particles when 3D printed in accordance with the temperatures in the table above. To ensure a comfortable and healthy working environment, we recommend 3D printing in a well-ventilated area.

For more information, download the safety data sheet for Ultimaker CPE+ here.